Emmons
MICHELLE EMMONS, 52
Birthplace: Riverside, Calif.
Marital status: Married
Spouse: Matt McPharlin, recreation management
Children: Four children, all adults
Residence
neighborhood: Oakridge
Online: @oregondirtroaddemocrat, @emmonsfororegon; emmonsfororegon.org
Party registration: Democrat
Education: University of Oregon, School of Journalism and Communication, BA 1999
Occupations: Small business owner, non-profit program management
Current employer: Willamette Riverkeeper, City of Eugene
Public sector experience: City of Eugene, several non-profit positions (both paid and volunteer) working in education, public lands stewardship, clean water advocacy
Private sector experience: Community development, national retail marketing
Elected office held: None
Previous unsuccessful runs for office: None
As a new candidate to the Oregon legislature, I am excited to lace up my boots and get to work for our rural communities. I have a long record of solving problems involving multiple points of view and interactions with folks across all backgrounds.
I use common sense and logic to address problems. I consider myself a “dirt road Democrat” – which also highlights my rural roots and residency east of Oakridge. Unlike many candidates, I work a full-time job and operate a small business. I don’t have the luxury of working on my campaign at the expense of other life priorities.
Like the majority of voters in House District 12, I have to worry about paying the bills and ensuring my kids have the education and training they need to stay local and thrive as adults. Therefore, my priorities are simple:
• Economic development – which starts with education, including workforce training programs – along with developing an infrastructure to support small businesses and living wage jobs relevant to rural communities:
• Increasing access to basic services, including healthcare and public safety
• Responsible natural resource management to ensure future generations have access to clean air and water.
To accomplish these goals, I will use a balanced approach by rolling up my sleeves alongside my community to get the job done. Learn more about me and my campaign at: emmonsfororegon.com.
Read the Q&A with all candidates here.
